Best Dispersed Camping near Hillside, CO

Are you planning a dispersed camping trip to Hillside? We've got you covered. Dispersed camping is an excellent way to get away from it all and to disconnect. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your Colorado camping adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Hillside, Colorado (66)

    Jess C.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Lake Deweese state wildlife area near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Deweese state wildlife area near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Deweese state wildlife area near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Deweese state wildlife area near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Deweese state wildlife area near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Deweese state wildlife area near Hillside, CO

    1. Lake Deweese state wildlife area

    5 Reviews
    10 Photos
    193 Saves
    Westcliffe, Colorado
    • Pets
    • Dispersed
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table
    • Firewood Available
    • Toilets
    Larry B.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area near Hillside, CO

    2. Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area

    14 Reviews
    21 Photos
    396 Saves
    Poncha Springs, Colorado
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Dispersed
    • Market
    • Firewood Available
    Shivors's photo of a dispersed camping area at Cloverdale Mines Dispersed Area near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Cloverdale Mines Dispersed Area near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Cloverdale Mines Dispersed Area near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Cloverdale Mines Dispersed Area near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Cloverdale Mines Dispersed Area near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Cloverdale Mines Dispersed Area near Hillside, CO

    3. Cloverdale Mines Dispersed Area

    2 Reviews
    21 Photos
    49 Saves
    Hillside, Colorado

    Don't want to camp in a developed campground? There are many places on the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands where you can pitch a tent and practice low impact camping techniques. Dispersed camping is primitive, undevleoped, frontcountry "car camping".

    Remember: when dispersed camping, no toilets, trash service, or potable water, are available. Store all food and trash securely, and pack out what you pack in. Practice Leave No Trace.

    Please observe the following requirements when dispersed camping:

    In some areas, dispersed camping and parking is allowed in designated sites only. Do not create resource damage by driving off-road, beyond designated parking locations, or behind barriers. Parking should be within 30' of site markers where posted. Developed sites, including trailheads and picnic areas, are closed to overnight camping and allow for day use activities only. Tread lightly, and avoid trampling sensitive vegetation. Locate your camp at least 100' from any water source. Use catholes to properly dispose of human and pet waste; bury waste in a cathole at least 6-8" deep and 200’ from any water source. Packing out human and pet waste using self-contained waste disposal systems is encouraged. Campfires are allowed at overnight sites as long as fire restrictions aren’t in place. You may gather small amounts of down, dead wood for a campfire. Use existing fire rings; keep your campfire small and always make sure it is completely extinguished before leaving. No campfires outside of designated overnight sites. BEARS and other wildlife When you go to the mountains and forest, you are in bear county. Do not leave ANY food, trash or other animal attractant unattended. Store all food and trash securely and pack out what you pack in. Failing to do so can result in a fine. Also be aware that; where not otherwise restricted, camping or leaving camping equipment at any location more than 14 days within a continuous 30 day period, and/or occupying any campsite within three miles of any prior camping or equipment location for a combined total of more than 28 days within any continuous 60 day period, is prohibited. Also, leaving camping equipment unattended for more than 24 hours is not allowed. In addition; discharging a firearm is prohibited within 150 yards of a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation site, or occupied area; or across or on a National Forest System road or a body of water, or in any manner or place whereby any person or property is exposed to injury or damage as a result of such discharge. Plan your trip; phone ahead for restrictions and special regulations. Contact your local Ranger District office for more information.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Nicole B.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Hayden Creek Roadside Camp near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Hayden Creek Roadside Camp near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Hayden Creek Roadside Camp near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Hayden Creek Roadside Camp near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Hayden Creek Roadside Camp near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Hayden Creek Roadside Camp near Hillside, CO

    4. Hayden Creek Roadside Camp

    3 Reviews
    12 Photos
    67 Saves
    Coaldale, Colorado
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    Angela E.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Cotton Creek Trailhead near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Cotton Creek Trailhead near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Cotton Creek Trailhead near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Cotton Creek Trailhead near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Cotton Creek Trailhead near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Cotton Creek Trailhead near Hillside, CO

    5. Cotton Creek Trailhead

    2 Reviews
    9 Photos
    78 Saves
    Crestone, Colorado

    The Cotton Creek Trail is 13.1 miles long. It begins at Forest Road 962 and ends at Forest Trail #745. Trail is well marked and maintained. It follow the creek through a rugged, steep canyon and diverse scenery, with views of high peaks and many beautiful wildflowers in season. Some stream crossings can be tricky if water level is high. Attractions are fishing in creeks and lakes, and many good campsites. Teacup Lake presents an opportunity for primitive route finding.

    The trail is open for the following uses: Hiking, Backpacking, Horseback Riding, Dispersed Camping, and Wildflower Viewing

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    SwitchbackKids's photo of a dispersed camping area at The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park near Hillside, CO

    6. The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park

    8 Reviews
    50 Photos
    343 Saves
    Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve, Colorado

    Explore any part of the 30 square mile dunefield you wish; there are no designated trails in the sand. A dunes-accessible wheelchair is available for free loan at the Visitor Center. Summer air temperatures are pleasant at this high elevation, but during afternoon hours the sand surface can reach 150F degrees, and dangerous thunderstorms can develop. Plan to hike the dunes in early morning or evening to avoid heat exhaustion, burned feet, or fatal lightning strikes.

    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Market
    • Firewood Available
    phil G.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Dispersed Sand Area 1 near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Dispersed Sand Area 1 near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Dispersed Sand Area 1 near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Dispersed Sand Area 1 near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Dispersed Sand Area 1 near Hillside, CO

    7. Dispersed Sand Area 1

    3 Reviews
    5 Photos
    86 Saves
    Crestone, Colorado
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    W D.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Wild Cherry Creek Trailhead near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Wild Cherry Creek Trailhead near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Wild Cherry Creek Trailhead near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Wild Cherry Creek Trailhead near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Wild Cherry Creek Trailhead near Hillside, CO

    8. Wild Cherry Creek Trailhead

    3 Reviews
    3 Photos
    12 Saves
    Crestone, Colorado

    The Wild Cherry Creek Trail is 5.7 miles long. It begins at Forest Road 961 and ends at Wild Cherry Lake. This trail offers the opportunity for a long day trip or a pleasant overnight. It is easy to follow and easy access to fishing in the lake and big game. Several good campsites exist along the route.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Abby D.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Medano Pass Primitive Road — Great Sand Dunes National Preserve near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Medano Pass Primitive Road — Great Sand Dunes National Preserve near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Medano Pass Primitive Road — Great Sand Dunes National Preserve near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Medano Pass Primitive Road — Great Sand Dunes National Preserve near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Medano Pass Primitive Road — Great Sand Dunes National Preserve near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Medano Pass Primitive Road — Great Sand Dunes National Preserve near Hillside, CO

    9. Medano Pass Primitive Road — Great Sand Dunes National Preserve

    8 Reviews
    23 Photos
    380 Saves
    Crestone, Colorado

    Roadside camping is permitted at 21 campsites in Great Sand Dunes National Preserve beginning 5.2 miles from where the road begins near Pi__on Flats Campground. These designated sites are free of charge and first-come, first-served. All 21 sites fill on summer weekends. Passable only in the warmer months and only with high-clearance 4-wheel drive vehicles. This road crosses areas of deep sand, traverses Medano Creek nine times, and passes through excellent habitat for bighorn sheep.

    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Firewood Available
    • Toilets
    • Alcohol
    Omar R.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site near Hillside, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site near Hillside, CO

    10. Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site

    13 Reviews
    46 Photos
    567 Saves
    Nathrop, Colorado

    Don't want to camp in a developed campground? There are many places on the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands where you can pitch a tent and practice low impact camping techniques. Dispersed camping is primitive, undevleoped, frontcountry "car camping".

    Remember: when dispersed camping, no toilets, trash service, or potable water, are available. Store all food and trash securely, and pack out what you pack in. Practice Leave No Trace.

    Please observe the following requirements when dispersed camping:

    In some areas, dispersed camping and parking is allowed in designated sites only. Do not create resource damage by driving off-road, beyond designated parking locations, or behind barriers. Parking should be within 30' of site markers where posted. Developed sites, including trailheads and picnic areas, are closed to overnight camping and allow for day use activities only. Tread lightly, and avoid trampling sensitive vegetation. Locate your camp at least 100' from any water source. Use catholes to properly dispose of human and pet waste; bury waste in a cathole at least 6-8" deep and 200’ from any water source. Packing out human and pet waste using self-contained waste disposal systems is encouraged. Campfires are allowed at overnight sites as long as fire restrictions aren’t in place. You may gather small amounts of down, dead wood for a campfire. Use existing fire rings; keep your campfire small and always make sure it is completely extinguished before leaving. No campfires outside of designated overnight sites. BEARS and other wildlife When you go to the mountains and forest, you are in bear county. Do not leave ANY food, trash or other animal attractant unattended. Store all food and trash securely and pack out what you pack in. Failing to do so can result in a fine. Also be aware that; where not otherwise restricted, camping or leaving camping equipment at any location more than 14 days within a continuous 30 day period, and/or occupying any campsite within three miles of any prior camping or equipment location for a combined total of more than 28 days within any continuous 60 day period, is prohibited. Also, leaving camping equipment unattended for more than 24 hours is not allowed. In addition; discharging a firearm is prohibited within 150 yards of a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation site, or occupied area; or across or on a National Forest System road or a body of water, or in any manner or place whereby any person or property is exposed to injury or damage as a result of such discharge. Plan your trip; phone ahead for restrictions and special regulations. Contact your local Ranger District office for more information.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
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Showing results 1-10 of 66 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews near Hillside, CO

173 Reviews of 66 Hillside Campgrounds


  • Katie H.
    Camper-submitted photo at Browns Canyon Dispersed near Hillside, CO
    Aug. 17, 2020

    Browns Canyon Dispersed

    Lots of space, very little shade

    A nice BLM area, free dispersed camping. Some loud generators in use when we came here but so much room we could get far enough away to not mind. No activities once you're here and no facilities but hey, its beautiful desert terrain and free. Some short trees but very little shade for cars or campers. Great for hammocks though!

  • D
    Matthew W.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Penrose Common Rec Site near Hillside, CO
    May. 16, 2022

    Penrose Common Rec Site

    Total boondocking.

    Dispersed camping on BLM land. Looks like some "permanent" residents out here. Dirty firepit and one trash pile encountered- cleaned these w/o much work, overall not much litter. Hot, dusty, cacti, cedar trees- kind of a cool Great American Desert experience. Pit toilets are present at the entrance.

  • Isabelle K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sydney C.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Road 240 - Dispersed near Hillside, CO
    Sep. 20, 2021

    Road 240 - Dispersed

    A hidden paradise

    This spot is one of the best kept secrets for dispersed camping in Colorado. The road has plenty of camping spots all the way up to the lake. Most spots are wooded and offer plenty of shade. We were lucky enough to end up right along the river. If you keep driving down the road, you will end up at a stunning alpine lake basin that offers plenty of hiking. High clearance vehicle is necessary to get down this road.

  • Elias M.
    Elias M.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Penrose BLM sites near Hillside, CO
    Jan. 23, 2025

    Penrose BLM sites

    Beautiful views of the mountains and the town

    These are blm campsites. There are pit toilets right when you cross into blm land and a sign that explains that you have to camp in designated areas. Like most blm locations there is a 14 day max.

    We got our 19 foot travel trailer into a spot with icy conditions, but the road does get quite a bit rougher if you keep going in. Great T-Mobile and Verizon service (2+ bars of 5g)

  • Kyle T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 17, 2023

    Huerfano State Wildlife Area

    Removed, but not much else to do

    This is a wonderfully isolated, dispersed camping area. There are group sites and individual ones, scattered bathrooms, and a few picnic tables. Not much to do nearby, but the campsite is beautiful.

  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    SwitchbackKids's photo of a dispersed camping area at The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park near Hillside, CO
    Dec. 15, 2024

    The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park

    Wild and Untamed

    Backcountry dispersed camping in Great Sand Dunes National Park offers an unforgettable and truly unique wilderness experience. If you’re seeking solitude and raw, untamed landscapes, this is the perfect spot to pitch your tent. With no designated sites, you have the freedom to find your ideal spot beyond the busy dunes and under an expansive star-filled sky.

    The journey begins with a hike deep into the park’s rugged terrain, where you’re surrounded by towering sand dunes, alpine forests, and sweeping views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The lack of light pollution makes stargazing an absolute highlight—this is one of the best places to witness the Milky Way.

    Keep in mind, this is true backcountry camping: no facilities, no water sources, and you must pack out all waste. Permits are required, so be sure to plan ahead. The environment can be challenging, with extreme temperature swings and strong winds that shift the sand beneath your feet. Good preparation and Leave No Trace practices are a must.

    The rewards are well worth the effort. From sunrise hikes to the serene sound of nothing but wind across the dunes, this camping experience immerses you in nature’s raw beauty like few others can. It’s an adventure you’ll carry with you long after you’ve left the dunes behind.

    Highly recommend skipping the tent and sleeping under the stars!

  • Brian C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Pete K.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Buena Vista Overlook near Hillside, CO
    Aug. 13, 2024

    Buena Vista Overlook

    1st timer

    This was my first go at dispersed camping in my new travel trailer.  Google Maps took me to the right location off of 285 and the dirt roads were manageable. I would recommend 4x4 or AWD vehicles but they're nothing too crazy.  Lots of good and large camping spots and I'd recommend a location on the left side of the road.  

    Sites didn't seem to be makred, and I stopped a bit short of what the coordinates that are listed.

  • phil G.The Dyrt PRO User
    phil G.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Dispersed Sand Area 1 near Hillside, CO
    Jun. 30, 2024

    Dispersed Sand Area 1

    Beautiful views, remote feeling, near town

    There are about 10-15 dispersed camping spots along the dirt road that leads up to trailheads at the end. The spots are spread out enough to where I did not see or hear a soul while camping 2 nights. A large gathering of mountain goats hanging out along the road was a fun surprise! Gorgeous views of Crestone peak and other neighboring mountains. The only negative was the mosquitos. They are horrendous. If you can’t handle it or find a way to keep them away it could ruin someone’s ability to enjoy the beauty.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nicole B.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Hayden Creek Roadside Camp near Hillside, CO
    Jun. 13, 2024

    Hayden Creek Roadside Camp

    Dispersed camping along Hayden Creek Rd

    There are a handful of dispersed camping sites along Hayden Creek Rd, South of Cuttys and before you get the the USFS campground. These sites seems to be primarily tent camping, though we were able to get our pop-up in 1 spot. We saw 2 other larger RVs near the upper Rainbow Trail camping area. The creek is nice and the sounds was much louder then we anticipated, which was good. In June 2024 it is really flowing. It looks as though USFS has been adding boulders to restrict vehicles from driving too far off road. Lots of places to park and set up a tent though.

  • Allison D.
    John M.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at 228A Dispersed Campsite near Hillside, CO
    Nov. 19, 2018

    228A Dispersed Campsite

    Ranger Review: Lost Creek Campground

    Campground Review

    As a local of the nearby town of Salida, I've seen a lot of campgrounds in Chaffee County and the San Isabel National Forest, but this one stands out for its beautiful scenery and prime location to nearby towns and the Colorado Trail.

    We chose the site because it's free of charge, a good mid point between the next day's destinations, and close to where our friend would be heading out from for her week long Colorado Trail mountain sufferfest.

    After a long day of driving shuttle to pickup a good friend in Durango, we drove back from Southern Colorado to spend the night at this lovely mountain spot halfway up Monarch Pass just down the road from the CT. When we arrived at night---close to midnight---we were easily able to make our way into the solo spot, find flat areas to set up three tents, and settle in for the night. While you could probably fit two groups at this site, it's definitely best as a single site. Despite the rain clouds, we could still see a smattering of stars and enjoy a night in the trees protected from the breezes.

    In the morning, my roommate and I took our dogs for a short walk up the nearby county road and enjoyed sweeping views of the Collegiate Peaks, as well as some tracks from a curious bear that had wandered nearby during the night. Up the road there were a number of pull offs for other dispersed camping areas.

    Once back at camp, we started to dry out our camp from the night's rain and helped our friend unload her gear for her Colorado Trail mountain biking trip for the next week. As it was drizzling most of the morning, my roommate and I opted to see our friend off for her CT ride and head to the town of Salida for breakfast, which was only about 20 minutes away down Highway 50.

    Pros:

    • Private, no other people
    • In a gorgeous mountain alpine setting
    • Easy to navigate to, even at night
    • Within 30 minutes of nearby town of Salida
    • Within 30 minutes of Monarch Ski Area
    • Less than a mile from the Colorado Trail
    • Easily fit three tents and our Subaru Outback

    Cons:

    • Bear activity
  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jess C.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Lake Deweese state wildlife area near Hillside, CO
    Jun. 23, 2020

    Lake Deweese state wildlife area

    Great fishing and mountain views

    This is dispersed camping. There are pit toilets but no other services or amenities. Colorado State wild life areas (SWA) require a permit that’s ~$40 a year, or if you have a year fishing or hunting lisence you camp for free. The road around the lake is a little rough but we got out 25’ travel trailer back here no problem.

  • Anthony P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Anthony P.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at South Colony Basin near Hillside, CO
    Jul. 8, 2020

    South Colony Basin

    Backcountry Bliss

    What an amazing spot! To get to the campground you must first brave the road to the trailhead. If you have a 4x4 truck/SUV the road is achievable but very rough. From the upper trail head, it was about a 4 mile hike to the campground near the lower lake. If you cant make the drive, add 2.5 miles each way to that total. 

    Once to the campgrounds, you will find spots scattered all around the lakes and in the trees. Some areas before the lake have metal fire rings set up but for the most part you will find rock rings. We found a nice little spot in the trees a couple minute walk from the lake and a stream. This was perfect for getting water and doing some afternoon fishing. 

    Keep in mind these are backcountry camp spots. There are no facilities like water and bathroom and everything must be packed in and out. Each spot is fc/fs and this area can get very busy on weekends. We saw many groups up there.

    Activities are plentiful in the basin. The lakes are stocked so the fishing is great. There are also 3 14ers and plenty of rock climbing to be had. This is one of my new favorite spots.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    W D.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Wild Cherry Creek Trailhead near Hillside, CO
    May. 14, 2024

    Wild Cherry Creek Trailhead

    Another trailhead for camping near Crestone and Great SandDunes

    This is a small trailhead that has a few spots for camping. Like nearby Cotton Creek Trailhead. A small parking area for backpackers and equestrians. Probably okay to camp for free. It is within the Rio Grand National Forest. We are in an RV. There is also a tent camper here.

  • Lise F.
    Lise F.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Browns Creek (South) Dispersed Camping near Hillside, CO
    Apr. 8, 2021

    Browns Creek (South) Dispersed Camping

    Space and Views!!

    We camped here for 4 nights in August 2020. It was so peaceful. Big wide dispersed camping spaces. Plenty of nice hiking - especially Brown's Creek area. Great location with easy drive to Buena Vista & Salida & Mt. Princeton. The only drawback was, well, August dryness & no water nearby. This was our first dispersed camping experience and we realize no facilities. There is one bathroom near the Brown's Creek trailhead about 2 miles away from where we camped, but we had a camper. Also, no picnic tables at all. AND cows roam freely throughout the area - drive slowly & respect them - listen for moos & coyote howls. Great bird-watching too. We enjoyed it so much!!

  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Paulina B.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Forest Road 272 Dispersed Camping near Hillside, CO
    Dec. 7, 2024

    Forest Road 272 Dispersed Camping

    Spacious Mountain Views with a Few Cow Visitors

    Coordinates: 38.702830,-106.160280

    This dispersed camping area offers stunning mountain views, spacious sites perfect for large groups, and easy access to excellent hiking trails. The September weather was ideal—cool and crisp without being too cold. While the site feels fairly secluded, beware of grazing cows from local ranches that wander through; be sure to secure food and belongings you don’t want damaged. Dog owners should be mindful of cleanup, as cow and dog waste can be an issue. There are two porta-potties onsite that are cleaned weekly, but campers must pack out all their trash to maintain the area’s natural beauty. Overall, it’s a fantastic spot for those looking for a peaceful escape with plenty of room to spread out.

  • Steve & Ashley  G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at Hancock Ghost Town Dispersed near Hillside, CO
    Oct. 1, 2019

    Hancock Ghost Town Dispersed

    Ghost town camping

    This site includes about 4 small dispersed camping areas near the town of Hancock Colorado. They old town is just some foundations and ruins in a grass clearing. This have some good signage telling about the history of the town and railroad. This sites are across the road from the grass meadow closer to the creek. Unlike the Alpine Tunnel dispersed area about 1/2 mile up the road, this site can be access by a small RV or camper if you can make it the steep gravel road to this area. The site was not occupied on the weekend we visited the area in July. The site is at 11,027 feet. So you will need to prepare for bad weather even in the summer. This area would only be accessed by tracked snow mobiles in the winter. It’s about 5 miles up hill from St Elmo which is well worth the visit despite the summer crowds. The dispersed campsite is very primitive and only provides a flat gravel area with fire rings. The area could accommodate 4 or 5 vans or small trailers. You will need pack in and out your food, waste, and trash. The mountain vistas are worth the drive and the Alpine Tunnel Trail is hard to beat.

  • Jeff K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Matthew W.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Penrose Common Rec Site near Hillside, CO
    May. 9, 2021

    Penrose Common Rec Site

    Not Fancy but...

    Easy access and not too far out of Pueblo or Cañon City. We didn't venture much further than the gate at the latrine, but we saw people coming out so I can assume there are spots further in. It's dispersed camping, so not fancy but a great place to park our teardrop for the night.

  • Steve & Ashley  G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at Marshall Pass near Hillside, CO
    Oct. 2, 2019

    Marshall Pass

    ATV Dispersed Camping

    This site is on Marshall Pass Road off of highway 285. The dispersed sites are near the intersection of Marshall Pass Road and Forest Service Rod 200. This intersection at the base off the access road up to Ohaver Lake Campground. The primitive sites are spread along the creek just off the Forest Service Road. Like many dispersed camps, the sites only have flat cleared areas with fire pits and no other amenities. The area is a great spot for ATV Riders to trailer into area as well as horse trailers to park and access the mountain roads and trails. The location is not the best for scenery and can get busy in the summer especially on weekends since it’s so close to the highway and Salida, Colorado.

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo at Poncha Pass Dispersed near Hillside, CO
    Jul. 1, 2024

    Poncha Pass Dispersed

    Very OHV friendly

    There are miles of trails from this area to go explore. There is O’Haver Lake not too far away to fish and more roads and trails from there. Poncha Creek is along the road as you make the drive in on Marshall Pass Road to O’Haver, and can be taken all the way to Sargents. This is dispersed camping, first come first served, no table and no trash. Pack in and pack out. There are many sites around the area to choose from.

  • Chris P.The Dyrt PRO User
    James P.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Forest Service Road 250 Dispersed near Hillside, CO
    Aug. 25, 2023

    Forest Service Road 250 Dispersed

    Better for bigger rigs

    FR 250 dispersed camping

    The sites where the coordinates take you are immediately off the road. They’re going to be very high traffic. They are wide-open and big enough for big rigs. The biggest issue would be dust. If you go a bit further in there are better sites that are more Secluded with some tree cover. There are decent views of the surrounding mountain range. There is no water source nearby. There is not a lot of cover for tent campers. This area is more suitable for people with a pull behind. The road once you get through the grate starts to get quite rutted so high clearance would be required. The deeper you go back the better the sites appear to be. You get more privacy and the views are better. The issue just becomes the road is quite rutted and you would want to scout it before trying to pull anything back there. This is not a good area for tent campers as you were very exposed. It is a great area for anyone with a van, pull behind or RV.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Omar R.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site near Hillside, CO
    Jul. 29, 2023

    Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site

    Endless Stars

    This place is heavenly for dispersed camping. We had a wide open spot with some shade and no other people within sight or sound. The perfect spot for us was up and up past the trailhead and around the road to where there's a long pull off spot on the left. There's no creeks so plan for that. People left plenty of wood for campfires. It's so quiet at night. The definition of wide open spaces. When the moon goes down and the millions of stars come out - you feel like you stepped back in time a million years and like you're the only people on earth. It's spectacula!


Guide to Hillside

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Hillside, Colorado, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, these areas offer a perfect escape into the wild.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

  • The Lake Deweese State Wildlife Area provides breathtaking views of the reservoir and surrounding mountains, making it a picturesque spot for camping enthusiasts.
  • Visitors have noted the beauty of the area, especially during summer nights when the Milky Way is visible, enhancing the camping experience.
  • The proximity to Westcliffe, a charming mountain town, adds to the appeal, offering a quaint atmosphere just a short drive away.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Hillside, Colorado

  • When camping at Hayden Creek Roadside Camp, be prepared for a peaceful experience with several flat tent spots right by the creek, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
  • It's advisable to bring your own firewood, as some areas do not provide this amenity, ensuring you can enjoy a cozy campfire during your stay.
  • Keep in mind that some dispersed camping spots may have limited amenities, so plan accordingly and pack out what you pack in.

Fishing and Outdoor Activities for Dispersed Campers

  • The Cloverdale Mines Dispersed Area is well-known for its excellent fishing opportunities, making it a great choice for anglers looking to cast a line in a tranquil setting.
  • Hikers will appreciate the nearby trails that offer stunning views and a chance to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
  • Many campers enjoy the thrill of spotting wildlife, including mountain goats, which can often be seen in the area surrounding the dispersed camping spots.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Hillside, CO?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Hillside, CO is Lake Deweese state wildlife area with a 4-star rating from 5 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Hillside, CO?

    TheDyrt.com has all 66 dispersed camping locations near Hillside, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.